Labradors are a cold-weather breed, originally developed in the province of Newfoundland in Canada, where they were used to help fishermen and hunters retrieve game in harsh winter conditions.
Their thick double coat, made up of a soft undercoat and a coarser outer layer, helps to keep them warm in freezing temperatures. This coat also sheds snow easily, which is a bonus for Labrador owners.
Labradors can handle cold weather, but they still need proper care to prevent hypothermia and frostbite.
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Labradors in Cold Weather
Labradors are comfortable in cold climates, and they have the right build for it as well. They tend to enjoy the cold weather!
Labradors were bred for cold weather, and they love taking walks during the cold, swimming, and playing outside. However, they can still have hypothermia and are still susceptible to the cold.
If you'll be spending much time on salt-treated surfaces, you should consider protecting their paws with booties or at least making sure to rinse your dog's paws off once you get home to prevent cracking and bleeding.
Do Labradors Get Cold?
Labradors can get cold in winter, just like humans do. They're susceptible to hypothermia and frostbite.
Dogs, including Labradors, need constant access to water in cold weather because the dry air can be just as harsh for them as it is for us.
If your Labrador's nose becomes dry in the winter, consider using a pet-friendly nose balm to keep it hydrated.
Labradors Enjoy Winter
Labradors are comfortable in cold climates, and they have the right build for it as well. They tend to enjoy the cold weather!
Labradors live for taking walks during the cold, swimming, and playing outside. Canada is a cold country, and Newfoundland island's average winter temperature is about 32°F.
Even though they are fond of snow and were bred for cold weather, they can still have hypothermia and are still susceptible to the cold. You'll want to keep an eye on your Labrador's paws, especially if you'll be walking on salt-treated surfaces, as salt can cause the skin to dry out and crack.
Labradors, being a sporting dog, are very accustomed to going outside in almost any condition, but it's still a good idea to consider protecting their paws with booties or rinsing them off after a walk to prevent cracking and bleeding.
Labrador Safety in Snow
Labradors are generally well-suited for cold weather, but they can still be susceptible to severe weather hazards. Shivering is a huge indicator that your pup is ready to go inside.
Be sure to check their ears, feet, and tail for signs of frostbite, as skin discoloration, swelling, blistering, or obvious pain can be vast indicators of frostbite.
Dangerous deicers and rock salt can irritate your Lab's paws, so consider applying paw balm or putting on doggy booties before letting your dog out.
If your pup comes inside, be sure to wipe their paws off to remove any salt or debris.
Labradors have a unique double coat that helps them withstand cold temperatures, but even with this coat, it's still important to keep an eye on their temperature limits.
As a rule of thumb, keep your Labrador protected once the temperature goes lower than 35°F, and even dogs with double coats start to feel a little cold once the temperature falls below 20°F.
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Preparing Labradors for Snow
Labradors are comfortable in cold climates and have the right build for it, making them fond of snow.
They tend to enjoy the cold weather and live for taking walks during the cold, swimming, and playing outside.
Their love for snow and cold weather is not without risks, as they can still have hypothermia and are susceptible to the cold.
To keep your Labrador safe and happy in the snow, make sure to provide them with warm shelter and dry coats after playing outside.
Labradors were bred for cold weather, so with proper care, they can thrive in snowy conditions.
Labradors and Snow
Labradors are comfortable in cold climates, and they have the right build for it as well. They tend to enjoy the cold weather!
Labradors live for taking walks during the cold, swimming, and playing outside.
Newfoundland island, where labradors originated, experiences cold winters with an average temperature of 32°F.
Sources
- American Veterinary Medicine Association (avma.org)
- Why Labs Love the Cold Weather (tkhotretrievers.com)
- Frostbite (akc.org)
- Winter and Your Lab: Cold Weather Care Tips for Your Pup (lankaslabs.com)
- Does My Labrador Need A Coat In Winter - Choosing Dog ... (pawsplusone.co.uk)
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